> It's frustrating, as someone who is interested in cooking and is trying to learn, that there are a million and one recipes out there, but very few things that teach first principles.

You'll probably love the books by Michael Ruhlman, if that's your desire:

1. The Elements of Cooking: Translating the Chef's Craft for Every Kitchen

2. Ratio: The Simple Codes Behind the Craft of Everyday Cooking

3. Ruhlman's Twenty: 20 Techniques 100 Recipes A Cook's Manifesto